Sanskriti International School to send U-14 boys’ football team to Dana Cup in Denmark

KATHMANDU: Sanskriti International School has announced its under-14 boys’ football team will represent Nepal at the Dana Cup in Hjørring, Denmark, from July 21 to 26, 2025.

The side, coached by Aurium Sports Academy, will join more than 1,100 teams from 45 nations in what is widely regarded as the world’s most international youth football tournament.

The Dana Cup attracts over 20,000 players, coaches and referees each year. This year’s under-14 seven-a-side section features between 100 and 150 teams drawn from clubs and schools worldwide. Matches will be held over five days of round-robin group fixtures, followed by knockout ‘A’ and ‘B’ finals, all played on more than 50 grass pitches around Park Vendia, with shuttle buses linking venues.

The tournament places a strong emphasis on cultural exchange. Visiting teams will stay in local schools, fostering friendships and festival-style camaraderie. Scouts and coaches from leading academies will attend matches to identify rising talent, while revenue generated will support local sports initiatives in Hjørring.

Diptee Acharya, founder director of Sanskriti International School, described the selection as a “landmark occasion” that “speaks volumes about the players’ talent, discipline and passion”. She added that the Cup is “not just about football but about showcasing Nepal’s spirit of perseverance and unity”.

Head coach Ramesh Maharjan said his squad had “trained relentlessly” and that facing international opponents would “sharpen their skills and broaden their horizons”.

Founded in 2010 in Kathmandu, Sanskriti International School combines academic excellence with character-building through sport and the arts. With over 600 students and a strong record in national championships, it is South Asia’s only school accredited by the International Primary Curriculum and remains committed to nurturing well-rounded future leaders.